i m might be slightly off topic since the game i m talking about isn t pc but console (PSP).
Being a great fan of crafting and long (tiresome sometime) quests to get components for a weapon or armor.
I have to have you consider a game based pretty much only on that: Monster Hunter.
One of the best games i know on psp (well sure there s not much competition on this console ><) based entirely on collecting and crafting your caracter does not gain level or anything you are forced to upgrade your equipement to advance in the game making you repeat quests time s and time s over to get the items needed. ( this can get frustration at some point but you feel really rewarded when you finally manage to craft what you wanted).
I love the aspect you use what you kill to get stronger. (and over again)
The crafting gives this game it s longevity (375 hours for me ^^) eventually getting a wee bit tiresome but still it gives you soo many options and combinations of items (more in the latest games than in the first) that you will want to see more.
eg: this sword is great! oh wait ! there s an upgrade... want to try that one!!
(well eventually you'll spend the next 3 hours trying to loot that last freaking item for the upgrade but you ll feel it was worth it some how ^^)
well since MH i ve been desperatly looking for a game working the same way on PC un successfully :s if anyone knows a game like that i d be most gratefull if he could inform me
Mockingbird